Relations between Benin and Niger have reached a new level of tension. In a diplomatic game of mirrors, the two neighbors have carried out mutual expulsions of personnel, confirming the rift that has been widening since the coup d'état of July 2023 in Niamey.

An exchange of retaliatory measures

It all began with Benin's expulsion of two Nigerien embassy officials: Illia Boukari (a police officer) and Balkissa Ibrahim (Nigerien services). They left Benin on January 1, 2026.

The Nigerien junta's response was swift: the Beninese chargé d'affaires in Niamey was declared persona non grata . This decision comes in an already fragile context, as Benin has recalled its ambassador since February 2025.

The reasons for the discomfort

While no official statement has detailed the reasons for the expulsion of the Nigerien officials, several theories have been put forward:

1. Principle of reciprocity: Since Benin had only deployed civilian personnel in Niamey, the presence of Nigerien security agents in Cotonou would have been deemed unjustified.
2. Security context: This crisis comes a month after a foiled coup attempt in Benin. Although Cotonou has not named any country, the government has pointed the finger at "foreign backers".
3. Accusations of destabilization: General Tiani continues to accuse Patrice Talon of hosting French bases, which Benin firmly denies.

The Benin embassy in Niger: Closure or confusion?

Uncertainty hangs over the future of the Beninese representation in Niamey. Before his forced departure, the chargé d'affaires reportedly announced by letter to his constituents the cessation of the embassy's activities on January 5, 2026 .

However, in Cotonou, this information is being tempered: government sources claim that the embassy is not officially closed, despite the departure of its chief diplomat.

A persistent dialogue of the deaf

While President Patrice Talon had recently expressed a desire to ease tensions, this incident marks a sudden halt. Between Niger's border closure (maintained since July 2023) and these expulsions, the re-establishment of constructive dialogue seems further away than ever.